The Ministerial Council, following a proposal from the Deputy Ministry of Culture, has decided to allocate a state contribution of €6.5 million to the Cypriot city selected as the "European Capital of Culture for the year 2030."

Limassol, Nicosia, Larnaca, and perhaps Ayia Napa are expected to compete for the title.

According to the Deputy Minister of Culture, Dr. Vasiliki Kassianidou, this amount will be dedicated to operational expenses, covering up to 60% of the total budget of the city in relation to these costs. Operational expenses include organizing artistic events, promotional activities, and administrative costs of the event, explained Dr. Kassianidou.

She pointed out that, in addition to the €6.5 million, the selected city will also receive a financial award of €1.5 million, which accompanies the "Melina Mercouri Prize." Additionally, the cities have the opportunity to obtain further funding from community structural funds, particularly for actions falling under urban development and social cohesion.

Discussing the decision, the Deputy Minister explained that for the 2017 European Capital of Culture, a similar state grant of €5 million was approved in 2011. The increase for the 2030 event aims to enable the chosen city to more comprehensively organize its action plan and enrich it with high-quality cultural activities.

Highlighting the importance of the institution, she stated that it represents one of the most significant and prominent European cultural events, primarily aiming to showcase relationships and strengthen intercultural dialogue among European peoples. "Thus, the European Capital of Culture 2030 is of great importance to the Deputy Ministry of Culture, as well as the Government," Dr. Kassianidou emphasized.

Winning this title, she added, will bring immense benefits not only to the country but even more so to the city that secures it, offering recognition, visibility, economic development, and progress opportunities. "It's also a means to showcase our contemporary culture and rich cultural heritage," she noted.